Reactions to USDA Approval of New Mexico Horse Slaughter Plant

TheUSDA's recent decision to permit a horse slaughter plant in New Mexico has sparked significant controversy. Despite overwhelming opposition andample groundson which to deny a permit, theUSDAannounced on June 28, 2013, that it would issue an inspection permit for a horse slaughter plant proposed by Valley Meats of Roswell, NM. If the plant is successful in obtaining state permits, it will be the first horse slaughter plant to operate on U.S. soil since the last plant closed in 2007.

Below are some reactions from public officials and humane organizations leading the fight to protect America's horses from the cruelest of fates - slaughter.

• U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu Vows Continued Fight Against Horse Slaughter
• U.S. Rep. Lujan Grisham Statement on USDA Approval of Horse Slaughter Facility in New Mexico
• USDA clears way for reopening of U.S. horse slaughter plant
• ASPCA Breaking News: USDA Approves Horse Slaughter Plant in New Mexico
• HSUS: USDA Approves Horse Slaughter, Despite Overwhelming Opposition

TheUSDA's decision highlights the urgent need to pass legislation to ban horse slaughter in the U.S. and the transport of horses across the border to slaughter plants in Canada and Mexico. If you have not done so yet, please contact your Senators and Representative to urge them to co-sponsor the SAFE Act. We must get this legislation passed to end, once and for all, the cruel and horrific practice of slaughtering American horses to supply foreign markets for horse meat.